Upcoming RV shows a cure for cabin fever'

According to Richard Curtin, director of Surveys of Consumers at the University of Michigan, RV shipments are projected to grow slightly in 2013 to 275,300 units. The industry low during the recent recession was in 2009, when shipments failed to reach 170,000. The 47th annual Detroit Camper & RV Show runs Feb. 6 through 10 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. (Photo courtesy of RVIA)

With temperatures hovering near “Holy cow!” and “You’ve got to be kidding me!” Michiganders’ thoughts this time of year often fast forward to summer. And for many, those lazy daydreams of summer usually involve camping and RVing.

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds is sponsoring the 47th annual show Feb. 6 through 10 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. All types of new 2013 recreation vehicles, including more than 275 units and 50 brands, will be displayed. Folding campers, motor homes, travel trailers, truck campers, fifth wheel travel trailers and toy haulers are among the models visitors will see.

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“There’s nothing like going to an RV show to cure your cabin fever,” MARVAC executive director Bill Sheffer said. “Where else can you get the opportunity to walk around and see, in the case of the Detroit show, 275 new RVs? You’re not just looking at a picture of them on the Internet.

“An RV show is also the place to talk to campground owners. We’re finding more and more people are literally making their camping reservations with campgrounds owners who have a booth at the show.”

In addition to the Detroit-area show, MARVAC will host RV exhibitions in Battle Creek (March 7-10 at Kellogg Arena), Flint (March 14-17 at the Perani Arena & Event Center) and Traverse City (March 22-24 at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center). The 24th annual Detroit Fall Camper & RV Show is Oct. 2 through 6, also at the Suburban Collection Showplace.

At all the RV shows, you’ll see folding campers from $4,999, trailers from $8,999 and motor homes from $49,999. There are discounts on 2012 models, plus manufacturer rebates on select RVs. Booths featuring parts and accessories, campground information, on-site RV financing and RV rentals make the winter shows a complete RV show experience.

Typically, people who go to RV shows fall into one of three categories: Those looking to buy their first RV, current RV owners looking to buy a new one or current RV owners who are simply out to enjoy the latest makes and models.

If you’re in the market, there’s no better place to kick the tires than an RV show. Nowhere else will you be able to personally inspect as many different RVs as you will at the winter shows. By narrowing down your list of needs and wants in an RV, you can make an informed choice. Getting the right options that fit your budget will ensure that your new RV purchase is one that you and your family will enjoy for years.

Whether you’re a would-be or a seasoned RVer, the reasons to buy are endless: Family bonding, affordable getaways or spontaneous road trips, to name a few. Here are some of the top reasons why there’s never been a better time to buy:

• In today’s economy, there are great deals available on new RV models.

• Financing is readily available for qualified borrowers.

• You may qualify for a tax deduction because the interest on your RV loan is generally deductible as second-home mortgage interest.

• RVs are more fuel efficient than ever.

• Even when fuel costs are up, RVers can enjoy the same experience closer to home to save on fuel.

• The sooner you buy, the sooner you can enjoy years of savings and adventures.

Shopping for the perfect RV?

• Finances: Knowing your price range is a great way to start your RV research. Deciding on whether to finance or pay cash will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on your new RV. Keep in mind that options and extras will increase the price, so leave yourself a cushion for items you think you may want to add.

• Family size: Consider how many family members, including pets, will be traveling in your new RV. Make sure you’ll have enough beds and seating to accommodate everyone and room for items that each family member may bring.

• Storage: Not enough storage can leave everyone feeling cramped and uncomfortable. Determine how much cabinet and storage space you’ll need to accommodate items such as bicycles, grills, toolboxes, camp chairs, etc. Many RVs have exterior “basement” storage areas for bulky or oversized items to leave the inside free for clothes, toiletries, housewares and other items you’ll need to access more quickly.

• Usage: Decide how often you will use your RV. Will you be a full-time RVer or just a summer vacation RVer? Full-time RVers may want all the luxuries of home, such as full kitchens and baths, large bedrooms and living areas, while weekend-only RVers may find that using campground baths and cooking over a fire will suit them just fine.

• Driving and towing: Consider whether you want to drive or tow an RV. Motorized RVs such as motorhomes are ideal for those who want the ease of a vehicle and camper in one unit. Many motorized RVs also can tow a single car or truck, allowing you to park the RV and use the smaller vehicle for short driving trips. Towable RVs include travel trailers, fifth-wheels, truck campers, pop-up campers and toy haulers. Before purchasing any towable RV or camper, be sure it can be towed by your vehicle.

FYI

The 47th annual Detroit Camper & RV Show, Feb. 6-10, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi is open 2 to 9 p.m. weekdays, 11. a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Adult admission (ages 13 and older) is $9, senior admission is $8 and children ages 12 and younger are admitted free. Admission coupons are available at marvac.org, Big Boy restaurants and in area newspapers. Visit one of the 20 metro Detroit NAPA Auto Parts Stores for a discount admission coupon good for $1 off any adult or senior admission.

The new “2013 RV & Campsite” magazine, a guide to camping and RV dealers in Michigan, also includes coupons.

The first 20 emails received after 12:01 a.m., Monday, Jan. 28 at gr8lakescamper@gmail.com will receive a pair of free tickets to the 47th Annual Detroit Camper & RV Show. Emails must include name and mailing address.